As noted, Neudahn was a pleasant surprise. When I got there the structure was completely deserted and an eerie stillness consumed the site. This just enhanced the experience!
Left, an arched entrance to the lower castle. The doorway to the right is seen below and goes into the stair well. This entance appears to be a recent creation and not part of the original construction. Several reasons lead to this conclusion. First, the stairs below are modern in design. Second, this entrance would compromise the defense of the castle. However, it is possible that the entrance is authentic.
Below, stairs reconstructed along the original design. Reconstruction work is evident here in the extensive use of mortar and even some new bricks.
Below right, the backside view of the stairway, showing how it was consturcted within the living rock. This is one of the most awesome and unique features of this castle.
Left, within the stairway is a mix of the old and new. While the mortar on the wall is new, it appears that the sandstone railing is a mix of authentic and modern. The worn pieces such as in the middle are certainly original to the construction.
Below, a view into the residential area of the upper castle. Note the combination stone and rock floor. While upper floors of the residential area would have burned, this floor would have remained intact.
More views of the residential palas. Above, one of the windows with the small seats, a very common feature in German castle construction from the 12-1400s.
These views follow a panorama that circles back to the top of the stairway (below).
The window frames appear rebuilt, but probably in most cases with original pieces. The window at right has pieces of iron still embedded, the remains of a grate that kept the window secure from intruders.
